Legal Question in Consumer Law in Florida

Is there a ''cooling off'' period for new car purchase?

We signed all the papers to buy and finance a new Expedition on Wednesday night around 10 p.m. However, the dealer was to add some options and hoped the car was ready for pick up the next day. It was not. It was not ready until 5 p.m. Friday when we did pick it up. The next day we used it and realized it was missing some critical things we need - most noteably there is no rear air conditioning vents in this very large vehicle. We decided to return it. We met with the general sales manager around 6 pm Saturday and he told us we have no option - it's ours, period. Aren't we entitled to some 'buyers remose', or cooling-off period? Also, when the 3-day period (if there is one) - would have started when we took possession, or when the papers were signed? Thanks.


Asked on 1/17/05, 8:39 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Is there a ''cooling off'' period for new car purchase?

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

No. There is no cooling off period for a new car sale. The only instance in which there might be such a period is on door to door sales, dance studio contracts or health studios all as set forth under Florida law.

Obviously, the value of the new car is severely diminished once you take it off of the dealer's lot and the law does not require the dealer to accept it back because the buyer changed his or her mind.

Scott R. Jay, Esq., 305-249-8000

Read more
Answered on 1/17/05, 10:53 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Consumer Law questions and answers in Florida